Speech on the East India Bill

Essay | Edmund Burke
Back to Hub
Contents

What Do You Understand by “Chartered Rights” of Man?

Premium

What do you understand by “Chartered Rights” of man?

The "Chartered Rights of Man" refers to the fundamental human rights and freedoms guaranteed by a nation's charter or constitution. It ensures protection and equality under the law. Edmund Burke (1729-1797) was an esteemed British statesman and orator. He eloquently discussed the concept of “chartered rights of man” in his December 1, 1783 speech.

Definition and Scope of Chartered Rights:  Burke acknowledges the existence of chartered rights and emphasizes their firm establishment and protection by public sanction. He states,

They belong to the Company in the surest manner; and

They are secured to that body by every sort of public sanction.

These words highlight these rights' legitimacy and legal foundation. It is often acquired through formal agreements and financial transactions.

Instrument of Monopoly and Power:  Burke differentiates between charters that protect rights and those that create

power and monopoly. He contrasts Magna Charta, designed to restrain power, with the East India Company's charter, designed to establish monopoly and power. He notes, 

Magna Charta is a charter to restrain power, and to destroy monopoly. The East India Charter is a charter to establish monopoly, and to create power.

This distinction is essential in understanding the different impacts of various charters on society.

Rights of Men and Government Responsibility: Finally, Burke calls for governmental responsibility in correcting abuses of chartered powers. He says that Parliament has granted these charters. The orator views that governmental oversight is crucial in balancing chartered rights and public welfare.

In conclusion, Burke’s analysis of man's chartered rights differs from the natural rights of individuals. He emphasizes the necessity for accountability and governmental oversight to prevent the misuse of such charters. He also advocates for a balance that upholds the true essence of justice and public service.

Continue Reading

Subscribe to access the full content

Upgrade to Premium
From this writer
E
Edmund Burke
Literary Writer
More Topics